The Sustainable Life

This month, Sebastian Cox sorts the wood from the trees – respectfully coppicing and pondering what to plant next

There is a particular pale shade that birch or hazel hold in that first cut in the autumn. This custard-cream is so pure in an otherwise autumnal wood, it’s tempting to reach down and eat the chips. I always make the first cut with an axe before starting the chainsaw, an odd ritual I’ve fabricated out of respect, easing the woodland into its felling season, but also acknowledging the woodmen managing Broome Wood with axes and billhooks for a thousand years before me.

I’m sure the birds know the sound of an axe or hook through generationally passed knowledge, so my first cut is also a request for their permission, demonstrating my understanding of the old ways. Nonsense, possibly, but I like to show intent towards nature’s needs through an understanding of our more connected past.